File your French income tax return

Declare your income to the French tax office, even for your first year.

For: Residents and new arrivals in France who need to declare their income to the French tax authorities.

Overview

Everyone tax-resident in France must file an annual income tax return, even if no tax is due, and even in your first year. The first declaration is often on paper or requires getting a numéro fiscal, after which you file online on impots.gouv.fr. The assistant clarifies whether you are a French tax resident, how to get your tax number, which income to declare and how to complete your return without missing key boxes.

The steps

1
Check tax residency
Determine whether you are a French tax resident for the year.
2
Get your numéro fiscal
Obtain your tax number, especially for a first declaration.
3
Gather income information
French and, if relevant, foreign income and any withholding.
4
Complete the declaration
File the first paper form or online on impots.gouv.fr.
5
Declare foreign accounts if needed
Report foreign bank accounts where required.
6
Check your notice
Review the avis d'imposition and any tax due or refund.

Documents you will typically need

Numéro fiscal (or first-declaration details)
Income statements (payslips, pension, self-employment)
Information on any foreign income and accounts
Previous year's notice if you have one
RIB for any refund or payment

Your personal assistant

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Frequently asked questions

Do I have to declare if I earned very little?

Yes. Tax residents must file even at zero or low income; it can even unlock benefits. The assistant confirms your obligation.

How do I get a tax number for my first declaration?

There is a specific route for a first-time declaration to obtain your numéro fiscal, sometimes on paper first. The assistant walks you through it.

Do I declare foreign income?

French tax residents generally declare worldwide income, with tax treaties avoiding double taxation. The assistant explains the boxes and the treaty logic at a high level.

Demarches-Simplifiees.co is an independent service and is not affiliated with the French government or any administration. The assistant provides practical guidance, not personalised legal advice. Always confirm details, fees and deadlines on the official government websites.